Parkinson, whose side go into the match on the back of a 1-0 win over Torquay, says the Arsenal boss does not deserve the recent criticism he has been subjected to, despite not leading the club to a trophy since the FA Cup in 2005.

"I think at this stage last year they were in a similar position," he continued.

Up for the Cup

The Bantams have not lost a Cup match since a 4-2 defeat by Watford in the FA Cup third round in January.

"I think in English football the biggest prize is the Premier League title and then after that it's getting in the Champions League and Arsene Wenger has managed that year in, year out.

"Everyone in the game appreciates his achievements because they're up against a lot of clubs who have spent more money than them."